The Vizag Metro Rail project now includes plans for two depots – one near VIMS (Visakhapatnam Institute of Medical Sciences) and the other close to the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA). Authorities have identified approximately 100 acres of land needed for these facilities.
Each depot will cover 35-40 acres and handle daily tasks such as train maintenance, inspections, stabling, shunting operations, wash-downs, and administrative functions. A Social Impact Assessment (SIA) officially began on May 30, 2025, to address land acquisition and compensation.
Land Acquisition Underway with Multi-Agency Involvement
Visakhapatnam district officials reported that most of the required 100 acres comes from government bodies and institutions. The breakdown includes 36 acres from the Port Authority, 4 acres from Indian Railways, 47 acres from the Animal Husbandry Department, and less than one acre from private D-Patta households. The total land acquisition cost is estimated at around ₹890 crore.
Phase 1 Metro Spans 46 km with 42 Stations
The initial phase covers approximately 46.23 km across three corridors, linking locations like the Steel Plant, Gurudwara, Old Post Office, Kommadi, and Chinna Waltair. Once operational, this network will benefit from the twin depots to ensure smooth train turnaround and service efficiency.
Project Funding and Execution Model
The project uses an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) delivery model. International funding could cover up to 60% of project costs, with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) currently evaluating its involvement. Officials expect to award the general consultant role by June 2025 and begin construction by October 2025.
Conclusion:
By placing depots near key medical and port zones, Vizag Metro Rail aims to ensure effective train management across its Phase 1 network. The ongoing land acquisition, impact assessments, and funding preparations show clear progress toward smoother urban rail operations.
